Gannon Wins First National Championship, 84-61

The Golden Knights of Gannon University stormed past Lander 84-61 to capture the school's first national championship in program history, bringing a title home to Erie, Pennsylvania for the first time ever.

Head Coach Easton Bazzoli stood in tears at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on April 5th, 2026, as the final buzzer sounded. His team had just accomplished what no Gannon squad had ever done: win a national title in any sport.

"The University deserves this. The community deserves this," Bazzoli said through emotion. "We have unique people in Erie, PA, and this team gets to represent everyone in that community."

The Golden Knights finished their historic season with a 34-3 record. They controlled the championship game from start to finish, weathering an early back-and-forth exchange before unleashing a 15-0 run that gave them the lead for good.

Pace Prosser led all scorers with 28 points, including a buzzer-beating three-pointer that sent Gannon into halftime with a commanding 37-21 advantage. The team never looked back, extending their lead to 23 points in the second half.

Gannon dominated the boards with 49 total rebounds and turned defensive pressure into offense all game long. The Knights converted 17 fast break points and added 21 second-chance points, never allowing Lander to build any momentum.

Hundreds of fans made the eight-hour journey from Erie to Indianapolis to witness history. Thousands more watched from home, erupting in celebration as their Golden Knights achieved what generations had dreamed of.

The Ripple Effect

This championship represents more than basketball excellence. It puts a small Catholic university and its blue-collar community on the national map in a way no other achievement has.

For decades, Gannon athletes and coaches have worked toward this moment, building a foundation of dedication and commitment. This team honored that legacy while creating their own, proving that sustained excellence and belief can break through any barrier.

The title also energizes an entire athletic department and inspires young athletes across Erie. When Coach Bazzoli saluted the crowd, he was celebrating not just his players, but everyone who wore maroon and gold before them.

The Golden Knights played fearless basketball when it mattered most, executing a flawless game plan on the biggest stage.